Widely regarded as one of the top political journalists in the U.S., The Weekly Standard's Stephen Hayes shares an up-to-the-minute view of the domestic and global political scene.

As editor-in-chief of The Weekly Standard, Stephen Hayes has an insider’s view into the machinations of politics in Washington and on the world stage, as well as the complex relationship between the media and policymakers. An old-school style “reporter’s reporter,” the strong opinions Hayes expresses in his writing and broadcast appearances grow out of his exhaustive reporting on issues ranging from national security policy and geopolitical maneuvering to the American political scene and the future of the Republican Party. His daily contact with the nation’s top political and national security leaders puts Hayes in a unique position to provide powerful analysis and insights. Throughout the Bush Administration, Hayes’ reporting on national security shaped the debates on such hot-button issues as the Iraq War, enhanced interrogations, North Korea’s nuclear program, and the seemingly intractable problems posed by Iran. Hayes distinguished himself during the Obama Administration as a tough but thoughtful critic of President Obama and his policies—from deficits and spending to health care, from Guantanamo Bay and detainees to rogue states and terrorism. Among conservatives, Hayes was an early critic of President Donald Trump during the 2016 campaign, and he has provided a valuable and objective perspective in his coverage of the Trump Administration. The author of two New York Times bestsellers, Hayes is a regular contributor on FOX News and has been a commentator on CNN, The McLaughlin Group, MSNBC, CNBC, and C-SPAN.

Speeches

Polarization and the Current Paradox in Domestic Politics

First and Only Appearance on The McLaughlin Group

The State of the Media: "Fake" News and the Role of Journalists

The relationship between the White House and the news media has always been complex, and in recent years it has come under increased scrutiny. With the political divide muddying the waters and the public’s trust in the mainstream press diminishing, what responsibility does the media have and what can they do to reestablish credibility? As a veteran reporter who has spent his career covering government and politics from the inside, Stephen Hayes understands the powerful role the media plays in a democracy, and shares his trenchant analysis of how journalists can navigate a contentious relationship with an adversarial administration and a skeptical public.

Inside Politics: What to Watch for Under the Trump Administration

With 2016’s populist surge resulting in a "change" election, what should organizations expect under the Trump Administration moving forward? Should the Democrats gain control of Congress in 2018, what will be the ramifications of a divided government? What does the future hold for the Republican and Democratic parties? Stephen Hayes answers these questions and more with the detailed knowledge of a political scientist and the on-the-trail experience of a veteran campaign reporter. His presentation provides an up-to-the-minute report on the issues and players of the political system, offering powerful analysis of the Trump Administration’s policies and how Congress and the electorate are adjusting to an unconventional president in the White House.

National Security in the Trump Era

The national security landscape has shifted dramatically, and a populist surge both in the U.S. and globally has affected the nature of international alliances. What is the legacy of the Obama Administration's "smart diplomacy” in a time when ISIS surged and the Arab spring roiled a troubled region? With old adversaries presenting new complications and terrorist attacks continuing to affect Europe and the Middle East, what can we expect from the Trump Administration, and what new challenges lie ahead? With the keen eye of a reporter who has filed stories from Iraq, Afghanistan, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and numerous European capitals, Stephen Hayes brings knowledge and experience to his presentation on international affairs and U.S. national security.

Books

He was fantastic! It was refreshing to break into something outside of healthcare for an hour this morning and he was the perfect fit for our group. He’s so smart, interesting and engaging AND nice, which is particularly awesome. We were very pleased. Couldn’t have been better.

Heritage Group

Stephen Hayes’ viewpoints and insights on the energy positions by President Obama and Mitt Romney led to a very informative discussion on the challenges, opportunities and strategic decisions that are currently being faced by the major segments of the energy industry.

American Gas Association

I highly recommend Stephen Hayes for your next event. Stephen had sharp insights on the highly charged environment in Washington, D.C. and the political and economic implications across the country. With strong wit and engaging stories, he captured the audience's attention and provided information that will help our executives look over the horizon. As a speaker, Stephen was a delight to work with, customized his session for our stakeholders, and received outstanding reviews. Book Stephen Hayes today!

Property Casualty Insurers Association of America

Stephen was absolutely fantastic. Our members loved his presentation and were talking about it well after the event was over. He was highly informative and added a great deal of humor. A home run in our book!